Prevailing tensions between Venezuela and the US government has lead the Venezuelan government to impose new visa rules on U.S. citizens. Analysts believe that though this country is resplendent in natural beauty there could be a 10 per cent drop in its tourism arrivals. U.S. tourists largely support tourism in Venezuela and now when U.S. dollar is officially worth about 6 Venezuelan Bolivares, the incentive for Americans to visit the country for a cheaper vacation would be expected, but the new visa requirements inhibit that demand.
The country has not seen much growth since 2009 in tourist arrivals where neighboring countries have seen an increase of atleast six percent annually.
President of Conseturismo, a tourism consulate, Ricardo Cusanno felt that certain policies that act as a deterrent in the path of progress should be kept away from politics. When the government is planning to increase tourism potentials for the country then more cohesive policies need to be followed and goals will have to be met.
The government plans to include the following criteria for acquiring visa, proof of rent or home ownership, bank statements, criminal records and proof of employment. Which can be hard to acquire if the applicant is already abroad. Moreover security and economic issues plague Venezuela as it has the highest homicide rate, according to Venezuelan Violence Observatory, a non-governmental organization.
However there is another issue even after a tourist manages to acquire visa. Most airlines like Delta Airlines, American Airlines, Lufthansa and Alitalia have either reduced or altogether cut flights to Venezuela after citing that the Venezuelan government owes airline companies about $4 billion.
Tourism officials in Venezuela definitely need to rethink on their policies or things will turn for the worst in a country that has such invaluable natural attractions.
